Helldivers 2 – Weapon Tier List

The best weapons for Helldivers 2 and how to unlock them.

Introduction

In the high-stakes world of Helldivers 2, mastering your weaponry is key to survival and success. This guide dives into the game's vast arsenal, ranking each weapon from the essential S Tier to the more niche D Tier.

We'll cover what makes each weapon unique, including how to obtain them, to help you build the perfect loadout. Whether you're a battle-hardened veteran or a newcomer to the fray, this tier list is your go-to resource for navigating the game's challenges with confidence and strategic finesse.

Tier List Explanation

S-Tier: These are the elite weapons of Helldivers 2, offering unparalleled effectiveness in combat. S Tier weapons typically provide significant advantages in terms of damage, utility, or both, making them top choices for any situation.

A-Tier: A Tier weapons are highly effective and reliable, falling just short of the S Tier's peak performance. These weapons are versatile and powerful, making them solid choices for a wide range of missions.

B-Tier: B Tier weapons are dependable and offer good performance. While they might not have the standout qualities of higher-tier weapons, they are more than capable in most situations and can be particularly effective with the right strategy.

C-Tier: C Tier weapons are situational and may require specific conditions or strategies to shine. They are useful in certain scenarios but might not be the go-to choice for every mission.

D-Tier: D Tier weapons are considered the least effective in general gameplay. They might have niche uses or be outclassed by other options in the arsenal, making them less favored among players.

TierClass
S TierLas-5 Scythe Energy Based Gun
JAR-5 Dominator Rifle
A TierAR-23 Liberator Assault Rifle
R-63 Diligence Marksman Rifle
PLAS-1 Scorcher Plasma Rifle
B TierSG-225 Breaker Shotgun
SMG-37 Defender Submachine Gun
SG-8 Punisher Shotgun
C TierG-3 Smoke Grenade
G-16 Impact Grenade
P-19 Redeemer Pistol
AR-23P Liberator Penetrator Assault Rifle
P4 Senator Revolver
D TierG-6 Frag Grenade
R-63CS Diligence Counter Sniper Marksman Rifle

Las-5 Scythe Energy Based Gun

Description: Precision-oriented energy weapon, perfect for precision shots with light armor penetration and heat damage. Suited for sustained engagements.

Damage per Second: 300
Fire Rate Limit: 008
Recoil: 001
Stun Duration: 0.0 Seconds

Armor Penetration: Light armor
Attack Type: Beam
Element: Heat

Unlock Method: Unlock this formidable weapon through the Helldivers Mobilize Warbonds progression. Navigate to the Acquisitions menu where it awaits, redeemable for 30 Medals.


JAR-5 Dominator Rifle

Description: Exclusive explosive weapon ideal for higher missions, offering balanced firepower and medium armor penetration.

Damage: 200
Capacity15
Recoil: 075
Fire Rate: 250

Unlock Method: Available as high-level mission rewards or advanced progression.


AR-23 Liberator Assault Rifle

Description: Versatile assault rifle balancing power and efficiency, featuring medium armor penetration.

Damage: 055
Capacity: 045
Recoil: 015
Fire Rate: 640

Special Traits: Light Armor Penetrating

Unlock Method: Accessible via Helldivers Mobilized War Bonds progression.


R-63 Diligence Marksman Rifle

Description: Marksman rifle with quick fire rate and precision, ideal for engaging at a distance.

Damage: 112
Capacity: 020
Recoil: 035
Fire Rate: 350

Weapon Traits: Light Armor Penetrating

Unlock Details: Unlocked as part of the Helldivers Mobilize Warbonds progression in the Acquisitions menu. Costs 8 Medals.


PLAS-1 Scorcher Plasma Rifle

Description: Hybrid weapon combining shotgun and SMG traits, delivering explosive damage and versatility.

Damage: 100
Capacity: 015
Recoil: 020
Fire Rate: 250

Weapon Traits: Light Armor Penetrating

Unlock Details: Unlocked through Helldivers Mobilized War Bonds progression.


SG-225 Breaker Shotgun

Description: Powerful close to mid-range shotgun with light armor penetration.

Damage: 330
Capacity: 016
Recoil: 030
Fire Rate: 300

Weapon Traits: Light Armor Penetrating

Unlock Details: Unlocked as part of the Helldivers Mobilize Warbonds progression in the Acquisitions menu. Costs 20 Medals.


SMG-37 Defender Submachine Gun

Description: High fire rate SMG offering a balance between firepower and adaptability.

Damage: 070
Capacity: 045
Recoil: 010
Fire Rate: 520

Weapon Traits: Light Armor Penetrating, One Handed

Unlock Details: Unlocked as part of the Helldivers Mobilize Warbonds progression in the Acquisitions menu. Costs 15 Medals.


SG-8 Punisher Shotgun

Description: Excels in close-quarters with efficient reloads and versatility.

Damage: 360
Capacity: 016
Recoil: 110
Fire Rate: 080

Weapon Traits: Light Armor Penetrating, Rounds Reload

Unlock Details: Unlocked as part of the Helldivers Mobilize Warbonds progression in the Acquisitions menu. Costs 4 Medals.


G-3 Smoke Grenade

Description: Offers strategic smoke cover with modest offensive capabilities.

Damage: 000
Penetration: 000
Outer Radius: 005
Fuse Time: 2.4 Seconds

Unlock Details: Unlocked as part of the Helldivers Mobilize Warbonds progression in the Acquisitions menu. Costs 25 Medals.


G-16 Impact Grenade

Description: Essential for explosive strategies with a significant damage impact.

Damage: 400
Penetration: 004
Outer Radius: 007
Fuse Time: 0 Seconds

Unlock Details: Unlocked as part of the Helldivers Mobilize Warbonds progression in the Acquisitions menu. Costs 20 Medals.


P-19 Redeemer Pistol

Description: Rapid-fire pistol with light armor penetration, balancing simplicity and effectiveness.

Damage: 060
Capacity: 031
Recoil: 011
Fire Rate: 1100

Weapon Traits: Light Armor Penetrating, One Handed

Unlock Details: Unlocked as part of the Helldivers Mobilize Warbonds progression in the Acquisitions menu. Costs 5 Medals.


AR-23P Liberator Penetrator Assault Rifle

Description: Crowd control variant of the Liberator, trading fire rate for explosive ammunition.

Damage: 045
Capacity: 030
Recoil: 019
Fire Rate: 640

Weapon Traits: Medium Armor Penetrating

Unlock Details: Unlocked as part of the Helldivers Mobilize Warbonds progression in the Acquisitions menu. Costs 40 Medals.


P4 Senator Revolver

Description: Focuses on precision and efficient ammo management, ideal for seasoned warriors.

Damage: 150
Capacity: 006
Recoil: 043
Fire Rate: 200

Weapon Traits: Medium Armor Penetrating

Unlock Details: High-level mission rewards or advanced progression.


G-6 Frag Grenade

Description: Basic fragmentation grenade, reliable for neutralizing diverse threats.

Damage: 250
Penetration: 003
Outer Radius: 008
Fuse Time: 2.4 Seconds

Unlock Details: Unlocked as part of the Helldivers Mobilize Warbonds progression in the Acquisitions menu. Costs 2 Medals.


R-63CS Diligence Counter Sniper Marksman Rifle

Description: Specialized marksman rifle lacking broader utility, designed for specific scenarios.

Damage: 128
Capacity: 015
Recoil: 053
Fire Rate: 350

Weapon Traits: Light Armor Penetrating

Unlock Details: Unlocked as part of the Helldivers Mobilize Warbonds progression in the Acquisitions menu. Costs 40 Medals.


Helldivers 2 Weapons Tier List F.A.Q.

Q: What is a weapons tier list?

A: A weapons tier list ranks the game's weapons based on their effectiveness, versatility, and overall utility in combat, from the best (S Tier) to the least effective (D Tier).

Q: How are the weapons ranked?

A: Weapons are ranked based on a combination of factors including damage output, rate of fire, utility in various missions, and how they complement different playstyles.

Q: Can a lower-tier weapon still be useful?

A: Absolutely. While lower-tier weapons might not be universally powerful, they can still be highly effective in specific scenarios or when used to complement a particular strategy.

Q: Why is it important to choose the right weapon?

A: Selecting the right weapon can significantly impact your effectiveness in missions, helping you to overcome challenges more efficiently and contributing to your team's success.

Q: How often is the tier list updated?

A: The tier list can be updated periodically, especially following game updates, new weapon releases, or changes in the game's meta that affect weapon performance.

Q: Should I only use S Tier weapons?

A: While S Tier weapons are generally the most powerful, it's important to consider your playstyle, the mission's requirements, and team composition. Sometimes, a lower-tier weapon might suit the situation better.

Q: Can I improve a weapon's tier ranking?

A: While you can't change a weapon's inherent attributes, mastering its use, understanding its strengths, and combining it with the right strategy can maximize its effectiveness, making it feel more powerful in the right hands.

Q: Where can I find information on how to obtain each weapon?

A: The guide includes details on how to obtain each weapon, typically through the Helldivers Mobilized War Bonds progression, mission rewards, or specific challenges within the game.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the effectiveness of your arsenal in Helldivers 2 hinges on how well it aligns with your playstyle and tactical needs. Whether it's the precision of a beam rifle or the destructive force of an explosive weapon, each has its place and potential. Keep experimenting with your loadouts and adapt your strategies to the challenges ahead. With the insights from this tier list and a sharp tactical mind, you're set to make a significant impact in the relentless battle for the galaxy's future. Embrace the fight, Helldiver, and carve your path to victory.

Dirk
Dirk

Dirk is a devoted stay-at-home dad. His days are filled with the joyful chaos of raising two amazing sons. When he's not in full dad mode, you often find him diving into the world of video games, where he can escape into fantastic adventures and challenges.

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